07-16-2025 07:39 PM
I want to use 4 pcs of Ettus USRP B210 to be synchronized all.
Please let me know the available synchronization options so that 4 pcs of Ettus USRP B210 are synchronized all simultaneously.
Please also let me know the recommended models and configurations when it need to use external devices.
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07-18-2025 05:03 AM - edited 07-18-2025 05:05 AM
Option 1: GPSDO (GPS Disciplined Oscillator) for Each B210
Each USRP B210 can be equipped with a GPSDO module, which provides:
10 MHz reference clock
1 PPS (Pulse Per Second) signal
This allows each device to be synchronized to GPS time, ensuring all four are aligned.
Pros:
High-precision synchronization via GPS
No need for physical clock distribution between devices
Cons:
Requires 4 GPSDO units
Requires 4 GPS antennas with clear sky view
More power and cabling complexity
Required:
4 × Ettus GPSDO modules
4 × GPS antennas
Power supplies for each B210
Board Mounted GPSDO (TCXO) | Ettus Research, a National Instruments Brand | The leader in Software D...
Option 2: External Clock and PPS Distribution (Recommended)
Use a centralized clock distribution system like the Ettus OctoClock-G:
Provides 8 outputs of 10 MHz and 1 PPS
Internally GPS-disciplined
Synchronizes all connected USRPs to the same clock and PPS
Pros:
Centralized and cleaner setup
Only one GPS antenna needed
Supports up to 8 devices
Cons:
Requires external cabling (SMA cables for clock and PPS)
Slightly higher upfront cost for OctoClock-G
🛠️ Required:
1 × Ettus OctoClock-G
4 × SMA cables for 10 MHz
4 × SMA cables for PPS
1 × GPS antenna
OctoClock Clock Distribution Module with GPSDO - Ettus Research | Ettus Research, a National Instrum...
Also find more infomation on:Synchronization and MIMO Capability with USRP Devices - Ettus Knowledge Base